North Carolina EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
View the 2025 NC EBT deposit schedule and find out what to do if your payment is late or your benefits run out early.
Nov 23, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
North Carolina EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
View the 2025 NC EBT deposit schedule and find out what to do if your payment is late or your benefits run out early.
Nov 23, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
North Carolina EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
View the 2025 NC EBT deposit schedule and find out what to do if your payment is late or your benefits run out early.
Nov 23, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
North Carolina EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
View the 2025 NC EBT deposit schedule and find out what to do if your payment is late or your benefits run out early.
Nov 23, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
North Carolina EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
View the 2025 NC EBT deposit schedule and find out what to do if your payment is late or your benefits run out early.
Nov 23, 2025
Rishi Ahuja
SHARE
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Knowing when your North Carolina EBT benefits will arrive helps you budget and plan your shopping trips. It takes the guesswork out of managing your monthly food expenses, giving you peace of mind.
In this guide, you'll find your EBT deposit date and learn what to do if your benefits don't show up on time.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in North Carolina
In North Carolina, SNAP benefits are distributed based on the last digit of the head of household's Social Security number. If no SSN is on file, benefits are issued on the third of the month. This system is part of the state's Electronic Benefit Transfer program.
Here is the monthly deposit schedule for SNAP benefits:
SSN ending in 1: 3rd of the month
SSN ending in 2: 5th of the month
SSN ending in 3: 7th of the month
SSN ending in 4: 9th of the month
SSN ending in 5: 11th of the month
SSN ending in 6: 13th of the month
SSN ending in 7: 15th of the month
SSN ending in 8: 17th of the month
SSN ending in 9: 19th of the month
SSN ending in 0: 21st of the month
How to Find Your Determining SSN
To be certain of your deposit date, you need to confirm which Social Security number is tied to your account. This is always the SSN of the person listed as the head of household for your case. You can find this information in a couple of places:
On any notice or approval letter you have received.
Within the “Primary Individual” screen on the ePASS or EBTEDGE portals.
Work First Cash Assistance Schedule
Unlike SNAP, Work First Family Assistance (TANF) benefits do not follow a fixed monthly schedule. Payments are issued after the county Department of Social Services confirms all participation requirements from the previous month have been met, so the deposit date can vary.
You can find your exact cash benefit load date by logging into your EBT account at EBTEDGE or by calling the North Carolina EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-622-7328. You can also contact your local DSS office for details.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in North Carolina
Once your deposit date arrives, you can confirm the funds are available in a few different ways. For a complete list of methods, see our guide to check your EBT balance in North Carolina. Here are three of the most convenient options:
Download the Benny app and create an account. Add your EBT card to see your SNAP and cash balances instantly. The app also provides cash-back on purchases at many popular stores like Costco and Walmart.
Visit the ebtEDGE online portal and choose “Cardholder Login.” Type your 16-digit EBT card number and then enter your PIN. The Account Summary page shows your current Food & Nutrition Services and Work First cash balances.
Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-622-7328. Follow the voice prompts to speak or key in your 16-digit card number and your 4-digit PIN. The system reads your current SNAP and cash balances.
Download Benny to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
Several factors can cause a delay in your EBT deposit, ranging from local office issues to statewide system updates.
County Processing Backlogs
Delays can often be traced back to your local county DSS office. Some county offices have reported significant backlogs due to staff shortages and the extensive training required for new workers, which slows down the approval and release of benefits.
Post-Pandemic Recertification Surge
The end of pandemic-era waivers reinstated standard interview and paperwork requirements for EBT benefits. This change led to a massive wave of new and renewal applications that overwhelmed the capacity of county staff, causing delays in benefit issuance.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Your case can be put on hold if required paperwork, such as a recertification or a six-month review form, is missing or incomplete. Payments may also be stopped pending verification of your income, expenses, or identity. Other compliance issues will also halt deposits until the matter is resolved.
System-Wide Technical Issues
Sometimes the problem is technological, affecting many recipients at once. Glitches or upgrades to the NC FAST software, used to determine eligibility, have been known to cause errors. Similarly, major changes to statewide payment platforms can temporarily freeze benefit payments even after a case is approved.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
In North Carolina, any unused Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) or Work First cash assistance funds automatically carry over to the next month. Your balance will continue to accumulate as long as your account remains active, giving you flexibility in how you use your benefits over time.
However, benefits are not indefinite. If your EBT account has no activity for 365 consecutive days, the entire remaining balance will be permanently removed. Any qualifying transaction, such as a purchase or even a balance inquiry, resets the clock on this one-year period under federal EBT rules.
Once benefits are expunged from your account due to inactivity, they cannot be reinstated. This policy applies to both food stamps and cash assistance funds, so it is important to use your card periodically to keep the account active and preserve your balance.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT balance
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing your EBT balance dwindle before the end of the month can be stressful. It’s a challenging situation, but you are not without recourse. Several options are available to help bridge the gap until your next deposit.
Ask for ‘Expedited’ (Emergency) Food & Nutrition Services
You may qualify for emergency benefits if your income is very low or your housing costs exceed your income. These expedited FNS benefits are typically issued in seven days or less, and often within 24 to 72 hours.
Submit the short ePASS application or a one-page paper form. To start the process, only your name, address, and signature are required when you apply for FNS.
Complete a same-day interview over the phone or in person. Bring proof of your income, rent, and utilities if you have them available.
Once your information is verified, your county’s DSS office will load the approved amount onto your existing EBT card or issue a new one.
Have DSS Recalculate Your Benefit if Anything Has Changed
If your financial situation has changed, you can ask DSS to recalculate your benefit amount. Reportable changes include new medical bills for anyone over 60 or disabled, higher childcare or utility costs, reduced work hours, or someone moving in or out of your home. You can report these changes when you contact FNS.
Log into your ePASS account or fill out a “Change Report” form at your local DSS office and upload your supporting documents.
Ask for a “same-month supplement” if the new information raises your deductions. DSS is required to act on this request within 10 days.
Keep copies of everything you submit and call 866-719-0141 to confirm the changes have been processed before your next benefit issuance.
Stretch Food With Statewide No-Cost Sources Most People Overlook
Use the interactive food-bank locator to find pop-up produce drops and mobile pantries in your area. You can also dial 2-1-1 or visit nc211.org to confirm hours and ask which locations allow multiple visits per month.
Sign up for gleaning texts from the Society of St. Andrew by contacting them at carolinas@endhunger.org or 919-309-5402. Volunteers help harvest surplus crops from farms and can often take home a large amount of free, fresh produce. More information is available at End Hunger in the Carolinas.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others.
To begin, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cash back for SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your budget and get more from your EBT benefits.
SHARE
Knowing when your North Carolina EBT benefits will arrive helps you budget and plan your shopping trips. It takes the guesswork out of managing your monthly food expenses, giving you peace of mind.
In this guide, you'll find your EBT deposit date and learn what to do if your benefits don't show up on time.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in North Carolina
In North Carolina, SNAP benefits are distributed based on the last digit of the head of household's Social Security number. If no SSN is on file, benefits are issued on the third of the month. This system is part of the state's Electronic Benefit Transfer program.
Here is the monthly deposit schedule for SNAP benefits:
SSN ending in 1: 3rd of the month
SSN ending in 2: 5th of the month
SSN ending in 3: 7th of the month
SSN ending in 4: 9th of the month
SSN ending in 5: 11th of the month
SSN ending in 6: 13th of the month
SSN ending in 7: 15th of the month
SSN ending in 8: 17th of the month
SSN ending in 9: 19th of the month
SSN ending in 0: 21st of the month
How to Find Your Determining SSN
To be certain of your deposit date, you need to confirm which Social Security number is tied to your account. This is always the SSN of the person listed as the head of household for your case. You can find this information in a couple of places:
On any notice or approval letter you have received.
Within the “Primary Individual” screen on the ePASS or EBTEDGE portals.
Work First Cash Assistance Schedule
Unlike SNAP, Work First Family Assistance (TANF) benefits do not follow a fixed monthly schedule. Payments are issued after the county Department of Social Services confirms all participation requirements from the previous month have been met, so the deposit date can vary.
You can find your exact cash benefit load date by logging into your EBT account at EBTEDGE or by calling the North Carolina EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-622-7328. You can also contact your local DSS office for details.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in North Carolina
Once your deposit date arrives, you can confirm the funds are available in a few different ways. For a complete list of methods, see our guide to check your EBT balance in North Carolina. Here are three of the most convenient options:
Download the Benny app and create an account. Add your EBT card to see your SNAP and cash balances instantly. The app also provides cash-back on purchases at many popular stores like Costco and Walmart.
Visit the ebtEDGE online portal and choose “Cardholder Login.” Type your 16-digit EBT card number and then enter your PIN. The Account Summary page shows your current Food & Nutrition Services and Work First cash balances.
Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-622-7328. Follow the voice prompts to speak or key in your 16-digit card number and your 4-digit PIN. The system reads your current SNAP and cash balances.
Download Benny to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
Several factors can cause a delay in your EBT deposit, ranging from local office issues to statewide system updates.
County Processing Backlogs
Delays can often be traced back to your local county DSS office. Some county offices have reported significant backlogs due to staff shortages and the extensive training required for new workers, which slows down the approval and release of benefits.
Post-Pandemic Recertification Surge
The end of pandemic-era waivers reinstated standard interview and paperwork requirements for EBT benefits. This change led to a massive wave of new and renewal applications that overwhelmed the capacity of county staff, causing delays in benefit issuance.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Your case can be put on hold if required paperwork, such as a recertification or a six-month review form, is missing or incomplete. Payments may also be stopped pending verification of your income, expenses, or identity. Other compliance issues will also halt deposits until the matter is resolved.
System-Wide Technical Issues
Sometimes the problem is technological, affecting many recipients at once. Glitches or upgrades to the NC FAST software, used to determine eligibility, have been known to cause errors. Similarly, major changes to statewide payment platforms can temporarily freeze benefit payments even after a case is approved.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
In North Carolina, any unused Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) or Work First cash assistance funds automatically carry over to the next month. Your balance will continue to accumulate as long as your account remains active, giving you flexibility in how you use your benefits over time.
However, benefits are not indefinite. If your EBT account has no activity for 365 consecutive days, the entire remaining balance will be permanently removed. Any qualifying transaction, such as a purchase or even a balance inquiry, resets the clock on this one-year period under federal EBT rules.
Once benefits are expunged from your account due to inactivity, they cannot be reinstated. This policy applies to both food stamps and cash assistance funds, so it is important to use your card periodically to keep the account active and preserve your balance.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT balance
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing your EBT balance dwindle before the end of the month can be stressful. It’s a challenging situation, but you are not without recourse. Several options are available to help bridge the gap until your next deposit.
Ask for ‘Expedited’ (Emergency) Food & Nutrition Services
You may qualify for emergency benefits if your income is very low or your housing costs exceed your income. These expedited FNS benefits are typically issued in seven days or less, and often within 24 to 72 hours.
Submit the short ePASS application or a one-page paper form. To start the process, only your name, address, and signature are required when you apply for FNS.
Complete a same-day interview over the phone or in person. Bring proof of your income, rent, and utilities if you have them available.
Once your information is verified, your county’s DSS office will load the approved amount onto your existing EBT card or issue a new one.
Have DSS Recalculate Your Benefit if Anything Has Changed
If your financial situation has changed, you can ask DSS to recalculate your benefit amount. Reportable changes include new medical bills for anyone over 60 or disabled, higher childcare or utility costs, reduced work hours, or someone moving in or out of your home. You can report these changes when you contact FNS.
Log into your ePASS account or fill out a “Change Report” form at your local DSS office and upload your supporting documents.
Ask for a “same-month supplement” if the new information raises your deductions. DSS is required to act on this request within 10 days.
Keep copies of everything you submit and call 866-719-0141 to confirm the changes have been processed before your next benefit issuance.
Stretch Food With Statewide No-Cost Sources Most People Overlook
Use the interactive food-bank locator to find pop-up produce drops and mobile pantries in your area. You can also dial 2-1-1 or visit nc211.org to confirm hours and ask which locations allow multiple visits per month.
Sign up for gleaning texts from the Society of St. Andrew by contacting them at carolinas@endhunger.org or 919-309-5402. Volunteers help harvest surplus crops from farms and can often take home a large amount of free, fresh produce. More information is available at End Hunger in the Carolinas.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others.
To begin, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cash back for SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your budget and get more from your EBT benefits.
SHARE
Knowing when your North Carolina EBT benefits will arrive helps you budget and plan your shopping trips. It takes the guesswork out of managing your monthly food expenses, giving you peace of mind.
In this guide, you'll find your EBT deposit date and learn what to do if your benefits don't show up on time.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in North Carolina
In North Carolina, SNAP benefits are distributed based on the last digit of the head of household's Social Security number. If no SSN is on file, benefits are issued on the third of the month. This system is part of the state's Electronic Benefit Transfer program.
Here is the monthly deposit schedule for SNAP benefits:
SSN ending in 1: 3rd of the month
SSN ending in 2: 5th of the month
SSN ending in 3: 7th of the month
SSN ending in 4: 9th of the month
SSN ending in 5: 11th of the month
SSN ending in 6: 13th of the month
SSN ending in 7: 15th of the month
SSN ending in 8: 17th of the month
SSN ending in 9: 19th of the month
SSN ending in 0: 21st of the month
How to Find Your Determining SSN
To be certain of your deposit date, you need to confirm which Social Security number is tied to your account. This is always the SSN of the person listed as the head of household for your case. You can find this information in a couple of places:
On any notice or approval letter you have received.
Within the “Primary Individual” screen on the ePASS or EBTEDGE portals.
Work First Cash Assistance Schedule
Unlike SNAP, Work First Family Assistance (TANF) benefits do not follow a fixed monthly schedule. Payments are issued after the county Department of Social Services confirms all participation requirements from the previous month have been met, so the deposit date can vary.
You can find your exact cash benefit load date by logging into your EBT account at EBTEDGE or by calling the North Carolina EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-622-7328. You can also contact your local DSS office for details.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in North Carolina
Once your deposit date arrives, you can confirm the funds are available in a few different ways. For a complete list of methods, see our guide to check your EBT balance in North Carolina. Here are three of the most convenient options:
Download the Benny app and create an account. Add your EBT card to see your SNAP and cash balances instantly. The app also provides cash-back on purchases at many popular stores like Costco and Walmart.
Visit the ebtEDGE online portal and choose “Cardholder Login.” Type your 16-digit EBT card number and then enter your PIN. The Account Summary page shows your current Food & Nutrition Services and Work First cash balances.
Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-622-7328. Follow the voice prompts to speak or key in your 16-digit card number and your 4-digit PIN. The system reads your current SNAP and cash balances.
Download Benny to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
Several factors can cause a delay in your EBT deposit, ranging from local office issues to statewide system updates.
County Processing Backlogs
Delays can often be traced back to your local county DSS office. Some county offices have reported significant backlogs due to staff shortages and the extensive training required for new workers, which slows down the approval and release of benefits.
Post-Pandemic Recertification Surge
The end of pandemic-era waivers reinstated standard interview and paperwork requirements for EBT benefits. This change led to a massive wave of new and renewal applications that overwhelmed the capacity of county staff, causing delays in benefit issuance.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Your case can be put on hold if required paperwork, such as a recertification or a six-month review form, is missing or incomplete. Payments may also be stopped pending verification of your income, expenses, or identity. Other compliance issues will also halt deposits until the matter is resolved.
System-Wide Technical Issues
Sometimes the problem is technological, affecting many recipients at once. Glitches or upgrades to the NC FAST software, used to determine eligibility, have been known to cause errors. Similarly, major changes to statewide payment platforms can temporarily freeze benefit payments even after a case is approved.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
In North Carolina, any unused Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) or Work First cash assistance funds automatically carry over to the next month. Your balance will continue to accumulate as long as your account remains active, giving you flexibility in how you use your benefits over time.
However, benefits are not indefinite. If your EBT account has no activity for 365 consecutive days, the entire remaining balance will be permanently removed. Any qualifying transaction, such as a purchase or even a balance inquiry, resets the clock on this one-year period under federal EBT rules.
Once benefits are expunged from your account due to inactivity, they cannot be reinstated. This policy applies to both food stamps and cash assistance funds, so it is important to use your card periodically to keep the account active and preserve your balance.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT balance
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing your EBT balance dwindle before the end of the month can be stressful. It’s a challenging situation, but you are not without recourse. Several options are available to help bridge the gap until your next deposit.
Ask for ‘Expedited’ (Emergency) Food & Nutrition Services
You may qualify for emergency benefits if your income is very low or your housing costs exceed your income. These expedited FNS benefits are typically issued in seven days or less, and often within 24 to 72 hours.
Submit the short ePASS application or a one-page paper form. To start the process, only your name, address, and signature are required when you apply for FNS.
Complete a same-day interview over the phone or in person. Bring proof of your income, rent, and utilities if you have them available.
Once your information is verified, your county’s DSS office will load the approved amount onto your existing EBT card or issue a new one.
Have DSS Recalculate Your Benefit if Anything Has Changed
If your financial situation has changed, you can ask DSS to recalculate your benefit amount. Reportable changes include new medical bills for anyone over 60 or disabled, higher childcare or utility costs, reduced work hours, or someone moving in or out of your home. You can report these changes when you contact FNS.
Log into your ePASS account or fill out a “Change Report” form at your local DSS office and upload your supporting documents.
Ask for a “same-month supplement” if the new information raises your deductions. DSS is required to act on this request within 10 days.
Keep copies of everything you submit and call 866-719-0141 to confirm the changes have been processed before your next benefit issuance.
Stretch Food With Statewide No-Cost Sources Most People Overlook
Use the interactive food-bank locator to find pop-up produce drops and mobile pantries in your area. You can also dial 2-1-1 or visit nc211.org to confirm hours and ask which locations allow multiple visits per month.
Sign up for gleaning texts from the Society of St. Andrew by contacting them at carolinas@endhunger.org or 919-309-5402. Volunteers help harvest surplus crops from farms and can often take home a large amount of free, fresh produce. More information is available at End Hunger in the Carolinas.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others.
To begin, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cash back for SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your budget and get more from your EBT benefits.
SHARE
Knowing when your North Carolina EBT benefits will arrive helps you budget and plan your shopping trips. It takes the guesswork out of managing your monthly food expenses, giving you peace of mind.
In this guide, you'll find your EBT deposit date and learn what to do if your benefits don't show up on time.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in North Carolina
In North Carolina, SNAP benefits are distributed based on the last digit of the head of household's Social Security number. If no SSN is on file, benefits are issued on the third of the month. This system is part of the state's Electronic Benefit Transfer program.
Here is the monthly deposit schedule for SNAP benefits:
SSN ending in 1: 3rd of the month
SSN ending in 2: 5th of the month
SSN ending in 3: 7th of the month
SSN ending in 4: 9th of the month
SSN ending in 5: 11th of the month
SSN ending in 6: 13th of the month
SSN ending in 7: 15th of the month
SSN ending in 8: 17th of the month
SSN ending in 9: 19th of the month
SSN ending in 0: 21st of the month
How to Find Your Determining SSN
To be certain of your deposit date, you need to confirm which Social Security number is tied to your account. This is always the SSN of the person listed as the head of household for your case. You can find this information in a couple of places:
On any notice or approval letter you have received.
Within the “Primary Individual” screen on the ePASS or EBTEDGE portals.
Work First Cash Assistance Schedule
Unlike SNAP, Work First Family Assistance (TANF) benefits do not follow a fixed monthly schedule. Payments are issued after the county Department of Social Services confirms all participation requirements from the previous month have been met, so the deposit date can vary.
You can find your exact cash benefit load date by logging into your EBT account at EBTEDGE or by calling the North Carolina EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-622-7328. You can also contact your local DSS office for details.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in North Carolina
Once your deposit date arrives, you can confirm the funds are available in a few different ways. For a complete list of methods, see our guide to check your EBT balance in North Carolina. Here are three of the most convenient options:
Download the Benny app and create an account. Add your EBT card to see your SNAP and cash balances instantly. The app also provides cash-back on purchases at many popular stores like Costco and Walmart.
Visit the ebtEDGE online portal and choose “Cardholder Login.” Type your 16-digit EBT card number and then enter your PIN. The Account Summary page shows your current Food & Nutrition Services and Work First cash balances.
Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-622-7328. Follow the voice prompts to speak or key in your 16-digit card number and your 4-digit PIN. The system reads your current SNAP and cash balances.
Download Benny to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
Several factors can cause a delay in your EBT deposit, ranging from local office issues to statewide system updates.
County Processing Backlogs
Delays can often be traced back to your local county DSS office. Some county offices have reported significant backlogs due to staff shortages and the extensive training required for new workers, which slows down the approval and release of benefits.
Post-Pandemic Recertification Surge
The end of pandemic-era waivers reinstated standard interview and paperwork requirements for EBT benefits. This change led to a massive wave of new and renewal applications that overwhelmed the capacity of county staff, causing delays in benefit issuance.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Your case can be put on hold if required paperwork, such as a recertification or a six-month review form, is missing or incomplete. Payments may also be stopped pending verification of your income, expenses, or identity. Other compliance issues will also halt deposits until the matter is resolved.
System-Wide Technical Issues
Sometimes the problem is technological, affecting many recipients at once. Glitches or upgrades to the NC FAST software, used to determine eligibility, have been known to cause errors. Similarly, major changes to statewide payment platforms can temporarily freeze benefit payments even after a case is approved.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
In North Carolina, any unused Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) or Work First cash assistance funds automatically carry over to the next month. Your balance will continue to accumulate as long as your account remains active, giving you flexibility in how you use your benefits over time.
However, benefits are not indefinite. If your EBT account has no activity for 365 consecutive days, the entire remaining balance will be permanently removed. Any qualifying transaction, such as a purchase or even a balance inquiry, resets the clock on this one-year period under federal EBT rules.
Once benefits are expunged from your account due to inactivity, they cannot be reinstated. This policy applies to both food stamps and cash assistance funds, so it is important to use your card periodically to keep the account active and preserve your balance.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT balance
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing your EBT balance dwindle before the end of the month can be stressful. It’s a challenging situation, but you are not without recourse. Several options are available to help bridge the gap until your next deposit.
Ask for ‘Expedited’ (Emergency) Food & Nutrition Services
You may qualify for emergency benefits if your income is very low or your housing costs exceed your income. These expedited FNS benefits are typically issued in seven days or less, and often within 24 to 72 hours.
Submit the short ePASS application or a one-page paper form. To start the process, only your name, address, and signature are required when you apply for FNS.
Complete a same-day interview over the phone or in person. Bring proof of your income, rent, and utilities if you have them available.
Once your information is verified, your county’s DSS office will load the approved amount onto your existing EBT card or issue a new one.
Have DSS Recalculate Your Benefit if Anything Has Changed
If your financial situation has changed, you can ask DSS to recalculate your benefit amount. Reportable changes include new medical bills for anyone over 60 or disabled, higher childcare or utility costs, reduced work hours, or someone moving in or out of your home. You can report these changes when you contact FNS.
Log into your ePASS account or fill out a “Change Report” form at your local DSS office and upload your supporting documents.
Ask for a “same-month supplement” if the new information raises your deductions. DSS is required to act on this request within 10 days.
Keep copies of everything you submit and call 866-719-0141 to confirm the changes have been processed before your next benefit issuance.
Stretch Food With Statewide No-Cost Sources Most People Overlook
Use the interactive food-bank locator to find pop-up produce drops and mobile pantries in your area. You can also dial 2-1-1 or visit nc211.org to confirm hours and ask which locations allow multiple visits per month.
Sign up for gleaning texts from the Society of St. Andrew by contacting them at carolinas@endhunger.org or 919-309-5402. Volunteers help harvest surplus crops from farms and can often take home a large amount of free, fresh produce. More information is available at End Hunger in the Carolinas.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others.
To begin, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cash back for SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your budget and get more from your EBT benefits.
SHARE
Knowing when your North Carolina EBT benefits will arrive helps you budget and plan your shopping trips. It takes the guesswork out of managing your monthly food expenses, giving you peace of mind.
In this guide, you'll find your EBT deposit date and learn what to do if your benefits don't show up on time.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in North Carolina
In North Carolina, SNAP benefits are distributed based on the last digit of the head of household's Social Security number. If no SSN is on file, benefits are issued on the third of the month. This system is part of the state's Electronic Benefit Transfer program.
Here is the monthly deposit schedule for SNAP benefits:
SSN ending in 1: 3rd of the month
SSN ending in 2: 5th of the month
SSN ending in 3: 7th of the month
SSN ending in 4: 9th of the month
SSN ending in 5: 11th of the month
SSN ending in 6: 13th of the month
SSN ending in 7: 15th of the month
SSN ending in 8: 17th of the month
SSN ending in 9: 19th of the month
SSN ending in 0: 21st of the month
How to Find Your Determining SSN
To be certain of your deposit date, you need to confirm which Social Security number is tied to your account. This is always the SSN of the person listed as the head of household for your case. You can find this information in a couple of places:
On any notice or approval letter you have received.
Within the “Primary Individual” screen on the ePASS or EBTEDGE portals.
Work First Cash Assistance Schedule
Unlike SNAP, Work First Family Assistance (TANF) benefits do not follow a fixed monthly schedule. Payments are issued after the county Department of Social Services confirms all participation requirements from the previous month have been met, so the deposit date can vary.
You can find your exact cash benefit load date by logging into your EBT account at EBTEDGE or by calling the North Carolina EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-622-7328. You can also contact your local DSS office for details.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in North Carolina
Once your deposit date arrives, you can confirm the funds are available in a few different ways. For a complete list of methods, see our guide to check your EBT balance in North Carolina. Here are three of the most convenient options:
Download the Benny app and create an account. Add your EBT card to see your SNAP and cash balances instantly. The app also provides cash-back on purchases at many popular stores like Costco and Walmart.
Visit the ebtEDGE online portal and choose “Cardholder Login.” Type your 16-digit EBT card number and then enter your PIN. The Account Summary page shows your current Food & Nutrition Services and Work First cash balances.
Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-622-7328. Follow the voice prompts to speak or key in your 16-digit card number and your 4-digit PIN. The system reads your current SNAP and cash balances.
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Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
Several factors can cause a delay in your EBT deposit, ranging from local office issues to statewide system updates.
County Processing Backlogs
Delays can often be traced back to your local county DSS office. Some county offices have reported significant backlogs due to staff shortages and the extensive training required for new workers, which slows down the approval and release of benefits.
Post-Pandemic Recertification Surge
The end of pandemic-era waivers reinstated standard interview and paperwork requirements for EBT benefits. This change led to a massive wave of new and renewal applications that overwhelmed the capacity of county staff, causing delays in benefit issuance.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Your case can be put on hold if required paperwork, such as a recertification or a six-month review form, is missing or incomplete. Payments may also be stopped pending verification of your income, expenses, or identity. Other compliance issues will also halt deposits until the matter is resolved.
System-Wide Technical Issues
Sometimes the problem is technological, affecting many recipients at once. Glitches or upgrades to the NC FAST software, used to determine eligibility, have been known to cause errors. Similarly, major changes to statewide payment platforms can temporarily freeze benefit payments even after a case is approved.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
In North Carolina, any unused Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) or Work First cash assistance funds automatically carry over to the next month. Your balance will continue to accumulate as long as your account remains active, giving you flexibility in how you use your benefits over time.
However, benefits are not indefinite. If your EBT account has no activity for 365 consecutive days, the entire remaining balance will be permanently removed. Any qualifying transaction, such as a purchase or even a balance inquiry, resets the clock on this one-year period under federal EBT rules.
Once benefits are expunged from your account due to inactivity, they cannot be reinstated. This policy applies to both food stamps and cash assistance funds, so it is important to use your card periodically to keep the account active and preserve your balance.
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What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing your EBT balance dwindle before the end of the month can be stressful. It’s a challenging situation, but you are not without recourse. Several options are available to help bridge the gap until your next deposit.
Ask for ‘Expedited’ (Emergency) Food & Nutrition Services
You may qualify for emergency benefits if your income is very low or your housing costs exceed your income. These expedited FNS benefits are typically issued in seven days or less, and often within 24 to 72 hours.
Submit the short ePASS application or a one-page paper form. To start the process, only your name, address, and signature are required when you apply for FNS.
Complete a same-day interview over the phone or in person. Bring proof of your income, rent, and utilities if you have them available.
Once your information is verified, your county’s DSS office will load the approved amount onto your existing EBT card or issue a new one.
Have DSS Recalculate Your Benefit if Anything Has Changed
If your financial situation has changed, you can ask DSS to recalculate your benefit amount. Reportable changes include new medical bills for anyone over 60 or disabled, higher childcare or utility costs, reduced work hours, or someone moving in or out of your home. You can report these changes when you contact FNS.
Log into your ePASS account or fill out a “Change Report” form at your local DSS office and upload your supporting documents.
Ask for a “same-month supplement” if the new information raises your deductions. DSS is required to act on this request within 10 days.
Keep copies of everything you submit and call 866-719-0141 to confirm the changes have been processed before your next benefit issuance.
Stretch Food With Statewide No-Cost Sources Most People Overlook
Use the interactive food-bank locator to find pop-up produce drops and mobile pantries in your area. You can also dial 2-1-1 or visit nc211.org to confirm hours and ask which locations allow multiple visits per month.
Sign up for gleaning texts from the Society of St. Andrew by contacting them at carolinas@endhunger.org or 919-309-5402. Volunteers help harvest surplus crops from farms and can often take home a large amount of free, fresh produce. More information is available at End Hunger in the Carolinas.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others.
To begin, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cash back for SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your budget and get more from your EBT benefits.
